Olare Mara Kempinski is a luxurious safari camp nestled within the exclusive Olare Motorogi Conservancy, adjacent to Kenya’s renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. This five-star tented camp seamlessly combines the elegance of traditional safari experiences with modern amenities, offering guests an intimate and immersive journey into the African wilderness.
Location and Accessibility
Geographical Setting: Situated on the banks of the Ntiakitiak River, Olare Mara Kempinski is enveloped by the expansive plains of the Olare Motorogi Conservancy. This conservancy is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and commitment to sustainable tourism, ensuring an exclusive and serene safari experience.
Access Routes:
- By Air: Guests can fly from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the Olare Orok Airstrip, which is conveniently located near the camp. The flight offers aerial views of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and significantly reduces travel time.
- By Road: For those who prefer an overland journey, the camp is accessible via a drive from Nairobi, providing travelers with scenic vistas of the Great Rift Valley and traditional Maasai settlements.
Accommodation
Olare Mara Kempinski features 12 spacious tented suites, each meticulously designed to offer comfort while maintaining an authentic safari ambiance.
Tent Categories:
- Deluxe Tents: Covering 80 square meters (861 square feet), these tents are adorned with elegant furnishings reminiscent of classic Edwardian hunting safaris. They include:
- Sleeping Arrangements: Choice of a king-size bed or twin beds.
- Seating Area: A generously arranged lounge space.
- Private Veranda: Wrap-around deck offering panoramic views of the surrounding savannah.
- Bathroom Facilities: En-suite with an oversized bathtub and separate shower.
- Honeymoon Suite: Spanning 100 square meters (1,076 square feet), this secluded suite is tailored for couples seeking a romantic retreat. It features:
- Private Plunge Pool: Overlooking the vast plains, perfect for relaxation.
- Four-Poster King Bed: Enhancing the romantic ambiance.
- Spacious Lounge: Designed for comfort and intimacy.
- Expansive Terrace: Ideal for private dining or sundowners.
In-Room Amenities:
- Solar-Powered Electricity: Ensuring sustainable energy use.
- Ceiling Fans: Providing comfort during warmer days.
- Mosquito Netting: For a peaceful night’s sleep.
- Writing Desk: Catering to guests who wish to document their safari experiences.
- Complimentary Laundry Service: Adding convenience to extended stays.
2025 Rates
Rates are per person per night on a full-board basis:
- January 1 – February 28: $1,129
- March 1 – May 31: $923
- June 1 – October 15: $1,521
- October 16 – December 18: $1,129
- December 19 – December 31: $1,521
Please note: A single supplement may apply.
Special Offers:
- Limited Time Offer: Guests can enjoy a 15% discount on flexible rates for stays between March 7 and March 27, 2025. Additional benefits are available for KEMPINSKI DISCOVERY members.
- Exclusive Residents Offer: Residents can avail a 25% discount on the best available rates, inclusive of full-board accommodation, select beverages, and shared game drives. Valid residency identification is required at check-in.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the Rates:
- All Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in various settings, including the main dining area and bush locations.
- Beverages: Selection of soft drinks, local beers, and house wines.
- Game Drives: Two shared game drives per day in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, conducted in custom-built 4×4 vehicles with experienced guides.
- Night Game Drives: Offering a unique perspective on nocturnal wildlife activities.
- Sundowner Cocktails: Enjoy drinks in scenic spots within the conservancy as the sun sets.
- Laundry Services: Complimentary for guests.
- Wi-Fi Access: Available in common areas for guest convenience.
Not Included:
- Conservancy Fees: Charged by Olare Motorogi Conservancy at $116 per adult per night and $58 per child (aged 8 to 12 years) per night.
- Premium Beverages: Such as premium wines and spirits.
- Spa Treatments: Available at an additional cost.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Can be arranged upon request for an extra fee.
- Personal Expenses: Including gratuities, souvenirs, and other personal items.
Activities and Experiences
Olare Mara Kempinski offers a diverse range of activities designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region:
- Day Game Drives: Explore the conservancy’s diverse habitats, home to over 95 species of mammals and 550 recorded bird species. Highlights include sightings of elephants, lions, cheetahs, and the annual wildebeest migration.
- Night Game Drives: Experience the thrill of nocturnal wildlife encounters, observing species that are active after dusk.
- Guided Bush Walks: Accompanied by knowledgeable Maasai guides, guests can learn about the flora, fauna, and tracking techniques.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Offering a bird’s-eye view of the Mara ecosystem at sunrise, followed by a champagne breakfast upon landing.
- Cultural Visits: Engage with local Maasai communities to gain insights into their traditions, lifestyle, and crafts.
Facilities and Amenities
The camp is equipped with facilities to enhance guest comfort and relaxation:
- Swimming Pool: Overlooking the savannah, providing a refreshing escape between safari activities.
- Spa Services: Offering a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind.
- Lounge and Bar Area: A comfortable space to unwind, share stories, and enjoy a selection of beverages.
- Boutique Shop: Featuring locally crafted souvenirs, jewelry, and safari essentials.
Guest Reviews
Guests have consistently praised Olare Mara Kempinski for its exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. Highlights from guest feedback include:
- Guided Safaris: Commendations for knowledgeable and passionate guides who enhance the game viewing experience.
- Culinary Delights: Appreciation for the exquisite and varied dining options available.
- Accommodations: Positive remarks on the spacious and well-appointed tents, offering comfort amidst the wilderness.
Best Time to Visit
The Masai Mara region offers remarkable wildlife viewing throughout the year. However, specific periods offer unique experiences:
- July to October: Witness the Great Migration, where vast herds of wildebeest and zebras cross the plains.
- January to February: Ideal for predator sightings, as wildlife is more concentrated around water sources.
- March to May: The landscape is lush and green following the rains, offering excellent photographic opportunities with fewer tourists.
🌱 Conservation and Community Engagement
Olare Mara Kempinski is located within the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, one of Kenya’s most respected and successful community-based conservancy models. This partnership between private tourism investors and over 200 Maasai landowners ensures the preservation of wildlife habitats while directly benefiting local communities through lease fees, employment, education, and conservation training.
Conservation Highlights:
- Low-Density Tourism Model: Only a limited number of guests are allowed within the conservancy at any time, ensuring minimal impact on the ecosystem and an exclusive experience for visitors.
- Wildlife Protection: The conservancy is home to endangered species such as African wild dogs and supports anti-poaching initiatives and habitat preservation efforts.
- Cultural Support: The camp works closely with local communities, helping to fund schools, clinics, and women’s empowerment programs.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendliness
Olare Mara Kempinski welcomes families with children over 8 years old, making it a great choice for adventurous families looking for a luxurious and safe base to explore the Masai Mara.
Family-friendly Features:
- Spacious tents for families or those requiring extra space
- Custom game drives catering to all ages
- Educational bush walks for older kids
- Maasai storytelling and cultural interaction sessions
- Babysitting available on request (additional charge)
Note: Due to safety and terrain, children under 8 are not permitted.
🧾 Sample 3-Day Itinerary at Olare Mara Kempinski
Day 1: Arrival & First Game Drive
- Fly from Wilson Airport to Olare Orok Airstrip.
- Meet your guide and transfer to camp with en-route game viewing.
- Enjoy lunch at the lodge followed by time to relax by the pool.
- Late afternoon game drive with sundowner stop on the plains.
- Dinner under the stars.
Day 2: Full Safari Immersion
- Early morning game drive with picnic breakfast.
- Optional visit to a local Maasai village or relax at the spa.
- Afternoon tea and light bites.
- Evening game drive or optional night safari.
- Dinner and storytelling around the fire.
Day 3: Morning Safari & Departure
- Sunrise game drive or guided bush walk.
- Return to camp for a leisurely breakfast.
- Final views of the conservancy before airstrip transfer.
🏆 Why Choose Olare Mara Kempinski?
✔️ Unmatched Luxury in the wilderness – five-star facilities with authentic safari character
✔️ Prime wildlife viewing – located in a conservancy famous for high predator density
✔️ Privacy and exclusivity – limited tents and no overcrowding on game drives
✔️ Community empowerment – tourism directly benefits local Maasai landowners
✔️ High-end dining and service – impeccable attention to detail and hospitality
✔️ All-season access – game drives allowed off-road and after dark
📌 Summary at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Masai Mara |
| Tents | 12 spacious tented suites incl. honeymoon tent |
| Rates (2025) | $923 – $1,521 pp/night (seasonal) |
| Best Season | July–Oct for migration, Jan–Mar for predators |
| Activities | Game drives, night safaris, bush walks, spa |
| Dining | Full-board gourmet cuisine, bush dining |
| Access | 45-min flight from Nairobi + 20-min transfer |
| Conservancy Fee | $116 adult / $58 child per night |
If you’re seeking a top-tier luxury safari experience that balances intimate wildlife encounters with premium accommodation and service, Olare Mara Kempinski should be at the top of your list.